Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Ben McKenzie Calls Cryptocurrency 'Largest Ponzi Scheme' in Congress

4/17/2026

42 6 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

Ben McKenzie, an actor and crypto critic, testified before Congress, calling cryptocurrency "the largest Ponzi scheme in history."
He argued that crypto crashes harm ordinary people.
The government showed no immediate signs of reform.
Many senators appeared swayed.
McKenzie expressed frustration that the public still believes in crypto as a path to the American Dream, acknowledging entrenched political and social forces hindering change.

1 of 1

Story summary

Ben McKenzie, an actor and crypto critic, testified before Congress, calling cryptocurrency "the largest Ponzi scheme in history."
He argued that crypto crashes harm ordinary people.
The government showed no immediate signs of reform.
Many senators appeared swayed.
McKenzie expressed frustration that the public still believes in crypto as a path to the American Dream, acknowledging entrenched political and social forces hindering change.